Felsina, Berardenga, Chianti Classico, 2006, Italy
We first had this Chianti Classico about 15 years ago from a sale by Grape Passion in Witham, Essex. This was the last bottle that was hidden away from that order. It’s still pretty good, dry, soft and very integrated. Subtle red fruit flavours that make it understated but very drinkable still. At £25 a bottle for the latest vintages it’s classic Chianti. Its like a classic Porsche, when drive slowly.
Herdade, Grand Reserva, 2006, Portugal
Made with a blend of Touriga National and Syrah this Grand Reserva from Herdade is Pretty good, sure at £25 a bottle is not cheap but there is quality. It’s a bold wine with plenty of tannins, very dry with massive flavours of plum, blackcurrant, vanilla, oak and chocolate coming through. There are hints of leather and smokiness that are all really well integrated and after 16 years it’s incredibly drinkable.
Felsina Berardenga is a great producer and makes amazing Chianti Classico wine. A younger Chianti would be deep ruby in colour with aromas of redberries, cherries and notes of spice. There would be flavours of these with dryness and medium tannins that should be well integrated. 14 years old and these are still here, a little softer maybe and a little less vibrant in colour but so good, wonderful, fabulous and worth every penny.
At £20+ a bottle for the younger versions, a can’t see 2006 available, its worth a few bottles and opening every few years to see the developments that may occur, or dont occur.
Felsina Berardenga, Chianti Classico, 2006, Italy